Well, I called the recon line for Barclay and spoke to a really helpful CSR. As predicted, I was declined for the Sallie Mae card. Their reasoning behind the denial was the fact that while I've had great credit behavior recently - it's not long enough.
I figure I'll keep up with the good rebuilding habits while staying in the garden for at least a year. Depending on where I stand then, I'll take another shot at reapplying.
Now the AMEX EveryDay app is still "In Progress" so, I'll just have to wait and see with that one. Fingers crossed!
I figure I'll keep up with the good rebuilding habits while staying in the garden for at least a year. Depending on where I stand then, I'll take another shot at reapplying.
Now the AMEX EveryDay app is still "In Progress" so, I'll just have to wait and see with that one. Fingers crossed!
I sure hope you're right, lol. 
Still listed as "In Progress" for the EveryDay card. This waiting is killing me! I'm on Day 5 and I'm almost tempted to call their New Accounts line to see what's going on.
Or just call
Called their New Accounts line and spoke to an analyst yesterday after work. She instantly denied me for the EveryDay card and wouldn't even provide reasoning as to why. She just said the reasons for denial would be mailed to me and then hung up. 
Anyway, I waited a little bit and called back to possibly recon and spoke to a much nicer sounding rep, who advised me to earn some good history with AMEX and then try again in the future when they can be assured I have good habits. I mentioned wanting a nice points/reward card and he recommended the AMEX Green card. I applied for that and was instantly approved. Charge card so, no preset limit - which is awesome for utilitization. I realize the Green card doesn't have the best rewards system - no signing bonus with a reward of 1 Point / 1 Dollar, but the annual fee isn't too bad and that was waived for the first year. Now I have two AMEX cards to carefully garden and I'll try applying for something better 6-12 months from now. 